In the post Stevie Ray era, it's easy to forget that the blues is about more than just instrumental prowess.  Heartfelt songwriting and passionate vocals are an essential part of the music.  Lisa Mann has a trumpet of a voice and her lyrics show she's earned her degree from the school of hard knocks. Hard Times Bad Decisions is one of the best new blues albums I've heard in a while.  I'm hoping I get a chance to catch Lisa Mann and her razor sharp band live some time......

Samantha Fish is a great guitarist and powerful singer.  Her energetic blend of rock and blues proves that rock and roll swagger isn't just a boy's game.  She's a dynamo live - here's my review of a recent performance.  It's published in Elmore Magazine.

Quaker City Nighthawks play a unique, hypnotic style of Southern Rock.  Listeners who enjoy crunchy guitar riffs and Texas swagger will want to give El Astronauta a listen.  Here's my review in Elmore Magazine.